InspirationMay 24, 20233 min read

Ceramic vs Porcelain Dinnerware: What Are The Differences?

Whether you are a couple looking to add the perfect gifts to your registry or someone wanting a re-fresh on your kitchenware for the new year, you are most likely spending a large amount of time researching the best dinnerware products.

Depending on your style, budget, and purpose for these pieces, it is best to understand the materials, the making process, and the role they play in quality.

The most common materials for higher-performing dinnerware sets are ceramic and porcelain, which are both made from clay. So what exactly differentiates the two? The type of clay used and the temperature reached when firing creates a different density and durability for both materials.

Ceramic

Ceramic is a dish made from clay, shaped, hardened by heat, and sometimes mixed with other materials and water. Products made from ceramic are overall durable but will chip easier.

Pure, traditional ceramic cookware is safe to use in the oven and microwave because it can handle high temperatures. This means that ceramic can also be used for natural, non-toxic cookware.

Another core difference between ceramic and porcelain are the finishes. Ceramic dishes are usually covered with glazes for a touch of color.

Porcelain

Porcelain is more durable and less porous than traditional ceramic. It is also denser than other types of ceramic and has better breakage resistance. Since it is more visually appealing, this type of ceramic is enjoyed for formal occasions and looked at as a luxury item.

The materials used for making porcelain are usually clay, kaolin, feldspar, and quartz sand, but they may contain other materials (glass, granite, bone ash, petuntse, alabaster, ball clay, steatite, etc.).

Michael Aram porcelain dinnerware is made of the hardest and lightest materials, with clay that originates in Limoges, France. This type of clay is known for its dazzling white, luminous hues.

With cutting-edge technology and high firing temperatures, the finish of our porcelain dinnerware results in a high-quality, elegant product. You can recognize the quality by the intricate hand-painted decorations and the sound of the porcelain when you tap it.

Here’s how to tell the difference between classic ceramics and porcelain:

Porcelain is translucent and thinner, making it lighter in weight and color compared to ceramic.
Ceramics are less durable and crack more easily compared to porcelain.
Porcelain is non-porous and more stain-resistant.

How To Care For Michael Aram Porcelain Products:

Porcelain without Gold or Platinum:

Dishwasher safe
Microwave safe
Oven safe up to 1652 degrees F

Porcelain with Gold or Platinum:

Hand wash with gentle detergent, and dry immediately with a soft cloth
Not microwave safe
Oven safe up to 1652 degrees F

Nickelplate, Porcelain:

Not dishwasher safe
Avoid extended contact with reactive foods such as undiluted lemon juice, salt, mayonnaise, or egg
Hand wash with gentle detergent, and dry immediately with a soft cloth
Avoid any detergent with lemon or other acidic agents
Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or toxic dips
If porcelain is removable, porcelain is dishwasher safe

To learn more about Michael Aram product care based on materials, read more here!

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